The 2012 Daytona 500 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and intriguing races in recent memory.Well, at least since the finale of the 2011 NASCAR season at Homestead, where Tony Stewart surpassed Carl Edwards on the track and in the standings to win the Sprint Cup.But aside from Edwards, who earned pole position at qualifying this past Sunday, who should you keep track of at the "Great American Race"?Danica PatrickMuch of the buzz surrounding the Dayton 500 has emanated from Danica Patrick, and rightfully so. The former IndyCar Series star is on hiatus from open-wheel racing to pursue a full-time run in NASCAR, with Sunday's season opener serving as a second debut of sorts.Patrick has driven in 25 NASCAR events in her career, thoug...

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The 2012 Daytona 500 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and intriguing races in recent memory.Well, at least since the finale of the 2011 NASCAR season at Homestead, where Tony Stewart surpassed Carl Edwards on the track and in the standings to win the Sprint Cup.But aside from Edwards, who earned pole position at qualifying this past Sunday, who should you keep track of at the "Great American Race"?Danica PatrickMuch of the buzz surrounding the Dayton 500 has emanated from Danica Patrick, and rightfully so. The former IndyCar Series star is on hiatus from open-wheel racing to pursue a full-time run in NASCAR, with Sunday's season opener serving as a second debut of sorts.Patrick has driven in 25 NASCAR events in her career, thoug...

Read Complete Article at Bleacher Report - Motorsports
Article is property of BleacherReport.com